Arlesey NEWS
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C o n c e s s i o n s a v a i l a b l e
From the Editor
Welcome to July
Your July issue is once again packed full of interesting ar ticles, local events and monthly updates This month we’d par ticularly like to draw your attention to our ar ticle on page 5, detailing an event which the Arlesey News Magazine are proud to be suppor ting We hope that lots of people will come along to the family fun day being held at Stotfold Football Club to help raise funds for DKMS - We have been so moved by the incredible braver y of local girl Amelie, that we just had to get involved and help suppor t this event as much as we could Please turn to page 5 to find out more - we would love to see as many of our readers getting involved as possible.
On page 7 of this month’s issue you can read all about the Arlesey Town Council Community Awards for 2025 which took place last month The awards formed par t of the annual town meeting, where it was fantastic to see so many people commended for their hard work within our community - we think you will agree, there are some most deser ved winners indeed
Finally this month, a huge thank you to Kelli Marie for allowing us to use her wonder ful butter fly picture for our July cover shot - it is just stunning! We always love to see your local photography, if you take a picture you feel may make a great future front cover then we would love to see it!
Until next time!
Joanne - Editor
With thanks to this month’s contributors: Kelli Marie (FRONT COVER) Jo Loach, Local schools, groups, organisations, Arlesey brownies & Rainbows, Arlesey Town Council, The Need Project, St Peter ’s Church, Arlesey W I, ATFC plus our regular adver tisers
News from Gothic Mede Academy News from Pix Brook Academy News from Etonbur y Academy News from Fair field Lower School Family Announcements Mental Health Matters Local Spor ts News Update from ATFC Update from the Need Project News from St Peter ’s Church Memor y Lane
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NEWS
Hands Up If You Were A Brownie?
Were you a Brownie or Guide in the 90s? Remember the fuzzy feeling of earning your first badge, the campfire songs, friendship bracelets and that iconic Brownies uniform? Well, if you had fun then, why not give some time to help us carr y on giving girls adventures and showing them that girls can do any thing.
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T: (01462) 234292 or 07887 871212
We’re a really active unit for girls aged 7 to 10 (check out our Facebook page to see more) and we’re looking for energetic and fun-loving volunteers to help with Brownies in the village We meet weekly but guiding is flexible so you can give what you can. Why not contact us for a chat?
It really doesn’t matter if you weren’t a brownie yourself, Girlguiding offers lots training and suppor t and, the oppor tunity to learn some new skills while having fun and making new friends.
If you’d like to find out more contact Julia by DM from our Facebook page, email us at arlesey.brownies@hotmail.co.uk or text to 07779125288.
And, if you like the retro designs you grew up with, check out the new fun clothing collection that’s a celebration of who you were and a tribute to the memories that shaped you. This limited throwback is more than clothing - it’s a piece of your stor y and ours The range is just for fun and available from www.girlgduidingshop.co.uk for all adults inside and outside guiding
ARLESEY WI HALL
Did you know that Arlesey WI Hall is available to hire, for Par ties, Functions & Events. The Hall has two kitchen areas, one which can be used for a mobile bar, there are tables and chairs for use, and toilets.
If you'd like to hire the Hall contact Simon on 07909 871213.
The retro inspired clothing line now available!
Come Along & Enjoy A Family Fun Day Out For A Fantastic Cause.
SUNDAY 27th JULY is looking like a fantastically fun day out for all the family! A wonder ful team of local fundraisers are organising a day full of family fun to raise money for DKMS UK in honour of Amelie, a brave local girl who has fought leukaemia an incredible four times.
This family friendly event will suppor t DKMS in their mission to find lifesaving stem cell donors and give more people, like Amelie, a second chance at life Helping to ensure the event runs smoothly are event sponsors Pendleton Gym, Countr y Proper ties, JSJ Roofing, Bookers, Fairhaven Foods and Lower Wilbur y Farm Shop. The Arlesey News Magazine were also delighted to get onboard to help with this most wor thy cause.
The day itself kicks off along Arlesey Road in Stotfold and will be based at Stotfold Football Club It promises to be a great day for all the family! The main focus of the day is a fun run, but you’ll also find a BBQ, great live music and a few surprises along the way! Ever yone taking par t in the run will receive a goody bag and a special medal to mark their achievement! A huge thank you to JSJ Roofing who sponsored this years medals - they really do look special! Registration star ts at 8.30am.
The event is open to all - ever yone is welcome to come along and enjoy the fun - You don’t need to be a runner to take par t, entries are open to walkers, grandparents, novelty racers, children in buggies (and even well trained dogs!)
If you haven’t signed up to take par t yet there is still timethe link is as follows. You can also find this on the Stotfold Challenge facebook page and the Arlesey News Magazine facebook page.www.ticketsource.co.uk/milesformiracles
Do come along and show your suppor t - even if you are not running there is still a fun day to be had and money to be raised! We hope that the community will get behind this wonder ful event and show their suppor t - Lets all have fun whilst giving back to an amazing cause at the same timeWe look for ward to seeing you there!
Stotfold Football Club - Arlesey Road
Registration 8 30am
Runners star t 9 30am Walkers & fun runners 10 30am
Live Music • BBQ • Fun for all!
Find us on our facebook page
Local girl Amelie who was recently helped by the charity DKMS
Your LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
We always like to receive your letters! Have something to say?
Email us at: arlesey.news@yahoo.com
Dear Editor,
Many thanks to Paul Dennison of Dennisons Ltd House Clearance and Waste Removal, as adver tised in the Arlesey News Magazine
He has completed several jobs for us and other family members, always promptly, efficiently and with good humour
We shall be using his ser vices again and can thoroughly recommend him
Regards,
Sue Wor thington
Arlesey Rainbows
Open For New Members
Summer is a proving to be a busy term for the Arlesey Rainbows Arlesey had the pleasure of welcoming the Girlguiding Henlow District for a Teddy Bears Picnic, the wet weather didn’t deter us. A huge Girlguiding ‘Thank you’ to the Mayor of Arlesey for joining us with her Teddy! Thank you also to Cllr Jodie Chiller y and Arlesey Town Council for granting us funds. We have purchased our new items, including our new Rainbow flag. We’re excited to display it proudly next term!
We’re looking for ward to our Autumn term and an exciting activity day! If your daughter is aged 4-7 and would like to join us, email 1starleseyrainbows@gmail.com
Arlesey Rainbows enjoying a fun-packed time!
CRIME FIGURES FOR ARLESEY
April 2025
The most recent crime figures from the Poilce national website: Violence & sexual offences - 15
Burglar y - 1 Anti- social behaviour - 1
Vehicle crime - 3
Other crime - 11
Other theft - 2 Remember in an emergency call 999 To repor t a crime online contact www.police.co.uk
ARLESEY WI
ALL WELCOME
Come along and join us at Arlesey WI Hall
Tuesday 8th July 7 30pm Ian Deavin will be talking to us about Tia ChiHistor y, relevance and practice
Tia Chi emphasises relaxed ver tical posture with poise and balance, it is a low impact exercise, which can help with walking, balance and mobility in the over 50’s age group to prevent falls
If your not a member call Rita if you’d like to attend 01462 638347
NEWS
Arlesey Youth Group Get Involved
Our Youth Suppor t Ser vice provides youth work activities for young people aged 12-19 across Central Bedfordshire
What we do
Our youth work activities offer oppor tunities for young people to build skills for life and work so they can successfully transition to adulthood We deliver:
•Groups for young people with special education needs and/or a disability (SEND)
•Groups for young people who identify as LGBTQI+
•Youth clubs in Arlesey, Biggleswade, Sandy & Houghton Regis
•Awareness sessions in schools
•One to one sessions in school and in the community
•Detached youth work in the community
Star ting in September, Arlesey Youth Group will run ever y Tuesday evening 5.30-7.30pm at Arlesey Youth Club in the High Street (SG15 6SN)
The QR code to the right will provide you wth more details on exactly what is on offer. If you have any questions or would like to get involved with the group, please email
joanne.goldsmith@childrenssociety. org.uk or call her on 07850 501308
Youth support service
Central Bedfordshire
Arlesey Town Council announces that Cllr Arkle has been elected to continue her ser vice in the role of Chairman and Mayor for the ensuing year following the Annual Meeting of Arlesey Town Council 20th May 2025. The Annual Town meeting had an impressive turnout this year seeing an increase on 2024 attendance which is fantastic as this is a meeting for residents - not a regular formal Town Council meeting. During the evening the first Arlesey Town Council Community Awards were presented to deser ving volunteers that selflesslygive their time and commitment for the benefit of Arlesey. The winners were:
Arlesey Community Events Group–Local Group/Business Community Involvement Award
Helen Bardell – Good Neighbour Award
Paulette Reid – Volunteer of the Year Award
Geoff Page – Lifetime Achievement Award
Your town council delivered streetlamp planters,picnic benches, the Queen Elizabeth II community garden, extended Christmas light display, VE Day commemoration events, new play equipment to replace damaged equipment at the recreation ground, new MUGA 5 a side football goals, a digital adver tising screen for the Resource Centre, the MacMillan Coffee Morning, Water butt planters, new grit/litter bins, repairs to the War Memorial and a new defibrillator soon to be installed on Hitchin Road Several projects remain in development stage for this coming year
A major project that the council is tackling currently is the requirement of new/additional facilities for Arlesey that are needed due to the recent and upcoming developments You, our community, will be consulted throughout the process to gain your input into potential facilities required and to create a preferred design to be proposed to Central Bedfordshire Council which will undoubtedly require some negotiations and tweaking The Town Council aim to involve you and gain your valuable input as much as possible along the way as these facilities are for the community Council is also lobbying for the completion of the relief road and deliver y of a junction referred to previously as “5 ways junction”
The year ahead looks set to be another busy one for the 7 Councillor volunteers, and the employed officers - Town Clerk, Assistant Clerk. Resource Centre Assistant, Groundsman and Litter Picker. Please keep an eye on the official Arlesey Town Council Facebook page, for information and communications or visit our website: www.arlesey-tc.gov.uk
Sam Ward (ACE) Helen Bardell
Paulette Reid Geoff Page
VE Day Anniversar y Celebrations
The 80th Anniversar y of VE Day was celebrated in style with Arlesey WI holding a Street Par ty as par t of the community celebrations Arlesey Town Council held an anniversr y event at the recreation ground where many people gathered to elelelelelelelelelelelelelelre enjoy the day St Peter's Chuch and and the Arlesey WI joined forces to run a cake stall which, as always proved to be a hit!
The WI celebrations above left, above, the cake stall was a huge success and left, the community celebrations Thank you to Julie Maddox for sharing these photographs!
SKIPPING WORKSHOP
Our pupils had a fantastic time taking par t in the skipping workshop this week!
The sessions are not only active and enjoyable, but also help to promote healthy lifestyles and build confidence in a suppor tive environment Its lovely to see the children par ticipating enthusiastically and encouraging one another
Thank you to Dan the Skipping Man for delivering such a valuable and inspiring workshop.
FOREST SCHOOL
The children in Year 2 had a fantastic day in Forest School this week
They learnt all about the different par ts of a plant and what they need to grow We finished a brilliant day by making popcorn over our campfire
The skipping workshop was a real hit with the children!
Year two enjoyed lots of different activities during Forest week
A closer look at the different par ts of plants for Year 2 this term
News from Pixbrook A c ademy
Message from Mrs Linehan
As we bathe in the warmer weather and welcome the month of July, the energy at Pix Brook Academy is absolutely electrifying We are not only making final preparations to finish another successful academic year, but we are also in the throes of strategically planning for PBA’s first year as a vibrant, fully extended secondar y school, educating socially responsible citizens of the future from Year 5 to Year 11 Before looking ahead too far though, it is impor tant to reflect on some of the positive and memorable moments of the summer term so far
For me, the absolute highlight has to be our inaugural elections for Heads of School! Witnessing our confident, committed students step up to represent the voice of their peers was truly inspiring. I simply couldn't be prouder of their incredible maturity and am genuinely excited to collaborate with this exceptional group of pupils next academic year.
This week, Pix Brook Academy is absolutely thrilled to host a series of pivotal events for the families and pupils who will be joining our community from September To all of you who have chosen Pix Brook Academy, I extend the most hear tfelt and enthusiastic welcome Spor ts Day continues to be an electrifying, unparalleled celebration of enthusiasm, energy, and excellence! Our phenomenal PE depar tment orchestrated an inclusive and truly unforgettable event The opening and closing ceremonies were nothing shor t of spectacular, It was also a fitting occasion to bid a fond, hear tfelt farewell to Mr Steve Adams, who has worked tirelessly, leading PBA with unwavering dedication these past seven years From the bottom of our hear ts, on behalf of all our staff and students, I want to say a huge Pix Brook thank you to Steve for his incredible commitment and inspiring leadership over the years It is only right and fitting that he brings this PBA round- up to a close
It is quite difficult to put into words the scale and complexity of the emotions associated with the end of my time at PBA and the end of my teaching career
For thir ty years I have spent my working days interacting with students, navigating the frustrating, inspiring, sometimes crazy world of young people as they grow into the adults they are going to be. It is an overused phrase but it has been a privilege. My career star ted just before Oasis released Wonder wall and it’s ending just as they star t their reunion tour, an unexpected but interesting parallel that does give some insight into the length of time I’ve been in the classroom.
Amongst many highlights my time at Pix Brook Academy will perhaps be considered the peak I have been amazingly privileged to work in many schools but the point at which I was appointed as the inaugural Principal of the first Free school in Central Bedfordshire will be something I look back on with immense pride As a Stotfold resident of many years it was amazing to have this oppor tunity and I am so grateful that Dr Lee, the CEO of BEST Multi Academy Trust saw fit to appoint me to this post in 2018 I had no idea just how wide ranging and impor tant this work was going to be but from the ver y star t I was for tunate to receive huge suppor t from our parents, staff and the Stotfold community Within six months of the school opening COVID hit, the school was built through that crazy period but over the next six years the school has gone from strength to strength: oversubscribed, fully staffed, highly successful OFSTED and outstanding results None of this could have been achieved without the suppor t of our community for which I am immensely grateful
It is now time for new leadership and I am excited to see the next chapter in the life of the school. Running a school requires energy, imagination and integrity and I know that Mrs Linehan and her team have this in abundance. I have absolutely no doubt that the school will continue to grow and achieve new heights and I look for ward to seeing this from afar, perhaps as I walk my dog past the school in the morning!
Thank you again and have a great summer ever yone.
Steve Adams completes his final term as Principal of PBA
A final word from Mr Adams
Last term we had our scheduled Ofsted inspection, Ofsted Inspectors praised Etonbur y Academy as ‘a welcoming and nur turing place to learn’ Inspectors were impressed with all areas of provision, describing how much pupils enjoy attending their school and the high expectations teachers have, which pupils rise to meet
As we celebrate the end of another wonder fully successful academic year we look back and reflect on the last year. We have had Year 6 SATS, GCSE’s, A Level and BTEC exams, workshops and in school visits and activity days, trips and educational visits across all years, along with the many PE clubs and spor ting fixtures and over 70 extra curricular clubs and offerings as referenced in our recent Ofsted repor t below
‘They benefit from a wide range of oppor tunities to develop their interests and skills Many build their critical thinking and confidence through oppor tunities, such as debating club Pupils also enjoy popular spor ts clubs, such as netball and rounders, as well as activities like chess, gardening and coding club ’
Our year 6 pupils are preparing for their transition to year 7 in our Secondar y school Our first Sixth Form cohor t, who have now finished all of their A Level exams are eagerly awaiting their results and excited about their future plans Our year 11 students have now attended their prom at The Letchwor th Hall Hotel. Their final celebration and farewellThey have put in tremendous effor t and achieved academically, emotionally and socially. We look for ward to welcoming back those that have chosen to attend our Sixth Form in September and wish you all the best of luck with your future endeavours.
News from Etonbur y A c ademy
Our year 5 pupils will be moving into year 6, they have all settled in beautifully and experienced some wonder ful topic days, school trips and extracurricular activities Mr Sale, Head of Juniors and his team are looking for ward to welcoming our new year 5 pupils in September
Some of our pupils in ETA Juniors have completed the three day Bikeability course at the end of the summer term. They took to the local roads to put into practice what they had learnt on school site.
. We have recently been recognised for our excellent attendance this academic year, and received the National School Attendance Award. We are in the top 25% of all FFT (Fischer Family Foundation) Secondar y Schools in England, something we are proud of and are ver y grateful to our families who suppor t us to achieve this national recognition We have also been awarded the Spor ts Mark Gold Awards for the four th consecutive year We are extremely proud of our pupils for their dedication to all aspects of school spor t, including those young volunteers, leaders and officials who made our competitions possible Thank you to our PE Team for your hard work, commitment and dedication which has helped us to achieve this award
Finally, after the summer break we look for ward to welcoming staff and students back for the new academic year. We have our open evening to look for ward to on Thursday 2nd October.
If you would like a personal tour, please do get in touch with us on 01462 730391 or via email etaoffice@bestacademies.org.uk to book.
Each and ever y year is different and we are excited for the next! Please continue to share in our values, Ever yone is respectful, Together we care and always aim higher Mrs Young – Principal Etonbur y Academy
News from Fair field Park Lower School
We had a ver y successful summer fete which was ver y well attended by parents and the community There was a wide range of stalls and activities and we saw per formances from the school choir and dance club The Father ’s Day and Loved one’s breakfast was ver y popular and children and family enjoyed breakfast together and then sharing their classrooms
The children enjoyed our Diversity themed week ‘Amazing me, Amazing you’ where the children dressed up as something that is amazing about them We saw lots of amazing hairstyles, clothing, hobbies and spor ts! During the week we learnt about ways we can celebrate our differences and considered how we are all amazing in our own way
We enjoyed meeting our new families who will be joining us in September and we also say goodbye to many families who have been with us for many years
We wish all our year 4 children lots of luck as they move on to their new middle schools We look for ward to welcoming ever yone back in September
Value of the Half Term: Courage Fair field Park Lower School Dickens Boulevard & Ruskin Drive office@fair fieldparklower.uk 01462 830000
Kitchens & Bedrooms
Windows Internal/External Doors
Skir tings -Architraves -Dados
Stairs -Handles -Balustrades
Handle & Lock Replacements
Loft Hatches
Flat Pack Furniture
All aspects of carpentr y No j ob too small
w w w justgiving com/gardenhousehospice
Announcements: We are happy to accept family announcements by post, telephone, email or through our facebook page If you would like to make a donation in return for your announcement then please visit the website above. Please mention that the donation has been made on behalf of the Arlesey News Magazine Why not surprise someone with an announcement in the Arlesey News? All we need is Email us at arlesey.news@yahoo.com
Family announcements
Happy 30th
Bir thday Ria,
ERICA
24th July
Happy 8th
Bir thday!
Love Mummy, Daddy & Gregor y! xx
EDWARD HYDE TURNS 100!
Edward Ernest Hyde will be celebrating his 100th bir thday on July 12th Edward, or Ted as known to some, was born on 12th July 1925. He grew up and lived in Stotfold his whole life Born in The Avenue, and moving to The Green with his family, sisters, Glenys and Dorothy. Edward met Joyce Guest who became his wife They lived in Vaughan Road, with children, Christine and Julian. Then they moved to their final family home in Regent Street Edward worked at K&L, then Jones Cranes Ltd from the age of 14, working there for his whole working life. He enjoyed keeping chickens in the garden from the age of 8 and riding his bike to the many different shops, drawing and painting all sor ts of Stotfold scenes and tending to his vegetable patch!
Edward loved being invited to Etonbur y school on several occasions to talk to pupils about Stotfold histor y! Many Stotfold residents that know him will know he likes to talk! Often Edward could be found in his front garden on Regent Street chatting to anyone and ever yone walking past, making many friends and acquaintances Sadly losing his wife Joyce in 2013 meant that life changed but Edward managed to stay living in his home until late 2023. Edward currently resides at Chase house in Arlesey and has a variety of visitors from Great Grandchildren to old friends
Wishing you a ver y Happy 100th bir thday and par ty
Love from all of your children, grandchildren and Great Grandchildren; Christine and Malcolm, Julian and Anne, Dan, Amy, Harr y and Emmie, Ross, Laura, Owen, Tui and Kai, Lauren, Adam, Harley, Lennon & Roxie
ENGAGEMENT CONGR ATULATIONS
Sarah and Tom
So thrilled you have got engaged!
Lots of love Mum and Dad XX x
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!
GARY 23rd July
Happy Bir thday
Love from us all xx
We hope you have the best day!
Love C J, Alex, Taylor & Charlie xx
JJ
Happy bir thday to the handsome!
Hope you have an amazing day
love Mia xx
ELSIE CHANDLER
24th July
Happy 9th bir thday
Love you always, Mum, Dad & Lottie x x
ALIZA 2nd July
Happy 6th
Bir thday love from all your family xx
Love Jenks xxx
Mental Health Matters with Jo Loach
p
When we find ourselves in an experience we don’t want to be in, seeing things we don’t want to see, we may also feel things we don’t like feeling. This may be in response to what is going on in the world around, or within us. Typically, us humans dislike feeling; powerless/helpless/out of control /frightened /alone /uncer tain. This is tricksy as life can often evoke these. While we may not be able to
WELLBEING WALKS
g ,
ability to cultivate compassion for self and others, can help It is easy to feel fantastic, over flowing with gratitude and full of the joys of life in good times. But unfor tunately, tough times come to all. During these, it is helpful to acknowledge where we are and what we are struggling with.
Then, we may be able to cut ourselves some slack by reducing the expectations we put upon ourselves We all have responsibilities we must maintain but there is usually some wiggle room to reduce the load where possible If we are kind enough to be realistic about what we can manage when our capacity is diminished, without judgement, we work with, rather than against ourselves Sometimes when we most need our own
Are you looking to make new friends?
Wellbeing Walks are a local walking group where ever yone is welcome Walks star t at 10.45am
WALKS FOR JULY:
July 3rd Corner of Hospital Rd, Arlesey
July 10th & 17th Scout Hut, Baldock Rd, Stotfold
July 24th 31st The Crown PH, The Green, Stotfold
Contact Beth Over field on 01462 815672
Nor th Her ts Road Runners
Entries are now open for the Standalone 10k on 5th Oct with entr y details on www nhrr org uk/standalone 10k The 1st of the month at Letchwor th Common will be on 5th July at 9am and is open to runners of all abilities with free entr y We continue our training sessions on Tues and Thurs with qualified coaches and meet in Letchwor th at 7pm
We welcome runners of all abilities so come along for a taster session.
Our details are on nhrr.org.uk or contact Ian 07506 429928
g,
self-compassion by continuing to expect huge amounts of ourselves irrespective of the challenges we face. This can compound the struggle by leading to feelings of failure if we cannot keep up.
When we combine compassion with realistic expectations, we may also recognise a need for help We may feel we should be able to cope and hesitate to reach out to reveal our reality But it is through the connection and suppor t of others that we are strengthened to come through our challenges
It is a sign of strength, not weakness, to ask for help.
Jo is a BACP Accredited Psychodynamic Counsellor and an Integrative Super visor with an MA in Contemporar y Therapeutic Counselling. Email: jo loach@gmail com
Local Spor ts News
Spider-Runners – Our 1000% Inclusive Fair field Running & Walking Group.
I’m Mike Bullock (Papa Spider) and with my Par tner Susan Mansfield (Mama Spider) 3 years ago, we decided to set up SPIDER RUNNERS, as a 1000% Inclusive and FREE Run Community, based in Fair field. Our Values as Spider Runners are simply to include & suppor t ANYONE &
EVERYONE! I’ve run for over 25 years, and whilst I’ve had many positive experiences, I’ve also experienced negativity & exclusion for ‘not fitting the norm’ I’ve met so many people who want star t running but are ner vous about joining a running club - they don’t think they fit the perceived norm of ‘a runner ’ in our view there is no norm EVERYONE can be a runner ! Initially a Facebook group, but now a (ver y) real run community, with 4,000 members, aged from 18-80, who meet regularly to run beautiful places, chat about running, and where to get the best cakes! (yes! even runners eat cake!)
A bit about me...(Papa Spider)
I hit 30, 18 stone, seriously unhealthy, suffering from depression, drinking too much and eating bad food not a great role model for my kids I committed to change my life, so I could run around with my kids as they grew up. I tried Gyms, ran in the cover of darkness as I was ashamed of my weight. I then got lucky and joined a Run Community with a fantastic ethos, who turned me into a decent Club Runner. Then it all went wrong, and I (literally) fell off a cliff in the Peak District, suffered a serious spinal injur y, and was told I’d never run another step I guess most of us experience setbacks, but a great way to overcome setbacks, is to have friends who truly care, who will look after you..
3 Years On - What Have We Done..
This Januar y, we were awarded Running Club of the Year by England Athletics - an emotional moment, considering we don’t charge a penny, and don’t have the backing of the established Run Clubs We have also
• Provided a suppor tive Community for many people facing tricky life situations, helping them to get through their individual challenges.
• Organised FREE running holidays in the Peak District
• Met ever y week at a local parkrun
• Organised our regular Last Sunday of The Season - where we inevitable end up at a beer garden or cafe!
• Raised many thousands for multiple charities
Our most impor tant mission is to create a safe community to help each other finish ever y day in a happy & safe place
We’d love you to join us - join our Spider Runners Facebook Group and get to know the Community; come for a run, or just meet us for a cuppa using this link www.bit.ly/spiderrunners
Spider Runners, providing an inclusive and free running community
Update From Arlesey Town FC
The summer break is finally upon us here at ATFC, but not before our Under 16’s brought home more silver ware to add to their haul this season They secured the EJA Chairmans Cup, with a 4-1 victor y against Great Wakering, completing their cup double
The Under 18’s just missed out in their Champions Play Off Final, losing 2-0 to Cockfosters, but that should not in any way taint what had already been a terrific season, having secured the double prior to this With both sides developing good wining habits, it bodes really well for the future of the club, and these young men
For those that could bear to pull themselves away from Eurovision last month, we welcomed a firm favourite back to Arlesey, in our ver y first “Evening With” event, to raise much needed funds for the club Former Premier League striker, Jamaican international, and Inter toto Cup Winner - Barr y Hayles joined us, on his Bir thday no less! He treated to us all to some incredibly insightful, and often hilarious anecdotes from his time in football A huge thank you to ever yone who came down to suppor t the evening Plans are already under foot in organising the next event, and we look for wards to sharing those plans with you soon….
As alluded to in last months issue, we will be offering our suppor ters the option of Season tickets for the upcoming 2025/26 campaign.
You have called for their return, and we have heard you! They also present the oppor tunity of a generous saving of 5 home league games free of charge, along with free entr y to all preseason matches and selected home cup games
Our season tickets will go on sale on Monday 18th June at 11:00am They will only be on sale until Friday 25th July, so don’t miss your chance to secure a bargain
Matchday/Season tickets, club events, and Membership can be purchased online from our website www.arlesey townfc.co.uk our ticket shop at www.ticketsource.co.uk/arlesey-townfootball-club or by scanning this QR Code:
Established 1971
Barr y Hayles provided an evening of enter tainment at the club
The Under 16 team complete the cup double
Update From The Need Project
Well, what can I say, we are still ver y busy with numbers are as high as ever We are so so blessed by our amazing suppor ters, who make it possible for us to do what we are called to do.
That help comes in so many ways. It could be food or financial, maybe a positive comment or a hello at the centre. It’s all encouraging. The greatest gift for us is prayer, as we seek Gods guidance, stepping for ward in this ministr y.
We have, as you know, got the keys for our permanent home and the work is going ver y well, but as with ever y thing, there are issues that arise and we must deal with We are on target to complete phase one on time and on budget, so that means all the lower-level work, which is our food operation, can move from where we are now to the chapel and it won’t affect our daily work We intend to have an open day when phase one is complete, so people can see what we do and ask our volunteers about the project and phase two.
Phase two of the project is taking shape. We want the space to be multifunctional, to cover as much as is possible and to be for the community and a place of Christian worship on a
regular basis This is the bit which we don’t have total funding for, but we are actively seeking advice on this and are in the process of applying for some funds It’s incredible that we have, through God’s grace and mercy, from a conversation with the minister and not being in the financial position to do any thing about it but felt that it was right to purchase the church. The rest is God’s plan for us and his building.
We have a mor tgage and sufficient funds, to finish the lower level, which is a miracle in itself Phase two will need funding of approximately £250,000 more to complete
For this, we would value your prayers, as it a lot of money, but we know when it is completed, it will be an amazing multifunctional space and a real asset to our local community (plans and ideas to follow)
Once again, I will never get tired of saying it, thank you so much for all the amazing, people who work tirelessly for the project and thank you for your fantastic suppor t
Praise God always - Gordon
OUR LAST MONTH IN NUMBERS:
671 parcels provided in 20 working days • 417 top- up-bags collected from our Pop- up sites • £47,785 estimated value of the food for the month • £6,602.50, the average monthly cost to run the charity 1594 adults,1267 children & 364 pensioners helped (includes best before food that we give away.)
We are always grateful for your help, suppor t and donations - please visit us on our facebook page for details.
Hello from St Peter ’s Church!
News from St Peter ’s Church.
For many people July marks the beginning of the holiday season. The weather is hopefully warmer, exams are finally over, term ends and there are often more oppor tunities to get away Whether for a day, a week, or longer, with family, friends or alone, if we can, a holiday usually gives us space to relax, rest and recharge Sometimes when that is not possible, just finding a few moments, taking time for ourselves gives us enough space to pause and just be Whatever we do to holiday, take time out or rest from the demands of life, it is usually good for us
In the Bible, Jesus often took time out for himself or time to be alone with the disciples, his special friends We can read about him withdrawing from the crowds, from the business and demands of his ministr y, to rest and recharge but also, to pray. It was Jesus’ way of communicating with his Father, of giving all that was his life to God. It was Jesus’ way of focusing upon what was impor tant, what would sustain him in all that his life was and would become.
For Christians, it is a living example of the goodness of prayer, of the power and sustenance that prayer brings Prayer is not about fancy words of complicated prayers, it is about offering ourselves, what’s on our mind, to God, however that sounds or comes out Jesus’s example is also a great reminder of the power of finding ways to find space in our lives
As we head into the holiday season why not find ways or a new way that you can rest or take time out just to be, to rest and recharge? And maybe in those moments, offer a prayer, talk to God, just as you are
St Peter ’s Church is open ever y day and ever yone is welcome to come into the church to enjoy the cool of the space, a place of peace and prayer or join in any of our ser vices We look for ward to seeing you
All are welcome to Ser vices at St Peter ’s in July 2025
6 July No ser vice at St Peter ’s – Joint ser vice at St Guthlac’s in Astwick at 11 15 am with picnic after wards
All Welcome!
13 July at 10 00 am All Age Worship
15 June at 9 30 am Holy Communion
20 July at 9 30 am Holy Communion
27 July at 9 30 am Holy Communion
New for weekdays!
Ever y Wednesday at 9 15 am –Morning Prayer
An informal, shor t time of prayer and reflection for 30 minutes
Weekdays in Church in July
Coffee Morning –
Ever y Tuesday at 10.30 am Morning Prayer –
Ever y Wednesday at 9.15 am Afternoon Tea –
Wednesday 2 July 2pm to 4pm
The church is open ever y day for visitors – do come in and sit a while in the cool, read a book in the Book Nook, or write a prayer and hang it on the prayer tree
Ever y Blessing
Revd Jenna Dearden
Email: revjennadearden@gmail com
Mobile: 07708 666612 & Church
Landline: 01462 731227
Down Memory Lane
Do you recall this bus fire which happened in the 1980’s on the Arlesey fly-over?
These pictures which show the devastation left from the fire were kindly loaned to us by Steve Maddox. It is believed that nobody was actually hur t in the fire, with fire crews from Shefford miraculously rescuing the three passengers involved
Do you recall this incident?
We love to hear your Arlesey memories and to receive any Arlesey memorabilia you might have kept over the years We are ver y happy to scan photographs and return them to you as soon as we are able to
If you have any thing you are willing to lend us then we would be delighted to receive them - You can get in touch with us by email at: arlesey.news@yahoo.com or by calling us on 01462 731986
Useful Telephone Numbers
Citizen’s Advice Bureau
01525 402742 01525 841217
Trading Standards Advice Line 0300 300 8136
Churches
St Peter ’s Church, 01462 731227
Arlesey Methodist Church
Rev'd Emmanuel Onabanjo
07464 881751
Fair field Community Church 07376 740410
Kings Baptist Church 01462 730521
Salvation Army Stotfold Corps 01462 731072
Council
Arlesey Town Council Town Council Office
Arlesey Community Centre, High Street, Arlesey, Beds
SG15 6SN Phone: 01462 733722
Email: clerk@arlesey-tc gov uk
Central Bedfordshire Council, Prior y House, Chicksands, Shefford SG17 5TQ 0300 300 8000
Email customers@centralbedfordshire gov.uk
Web www.centralbedfordshire.gov uk
Waste Collection / Recycling / Dog Warden / Fly tipping / Grass Cutting / Street Cleaning / Abandoned Vehicles
0300 300 8631 or 0300 300 8632
Doctor
Arlesey Medical Centre
www arleseymedicalcentre nhs uk
01462 732144
Larksfield Surger y Stotfold: 01462 732200
Out of Hours Ser vice 111
Emergencies
Electricity Emergencies
Gas Emergencies
Helplines
Alcoholics Anonymous
0800 7 838 838
0800 111999
01438 747475
Childline 0800 1111
National Menengitis Trust
0845 6000800
Samaritans 08457 909090
NSPCC 0800 800 5000
Housing
First Garden City Homes 01462 683307
Pioneer House, Nor ton Way South, Letchwor th Garden City, Her ts, SG6 1NY
Grand Union Housing - all enquiries 0300 123 5544
Miscellaneous
Arlesey Community Larder
07427 650080. Arlesey Good Neighbours 01462 732210
ACORN - Arlesey Conser vation For Nature
Mick Jackson 07970 734416 ( Treasurer)
arlesey acorn@gmail com
Beds Rural Communities Charity 01234 838771
Bir ths, Deaths & Marriages 0300 300 8089
Police
Beds Police (Crime repor ting)
01234 841212
Crimestoppers 0800 555111
Hospitals
Bedford Hospital 01234 355122
Lister Hospital 01438 314333
NHS Direct 0845 464700 300 8068
Librar y Arlesey Resource Centre & Librar y 01462 731469
Stotfold Librar y 0300 300 8068
Pubs
The White Horse 01462 621118
The Old Oak 01462 612536
The True Britton 07494 563496
Schools & Nurseries
Etonbur y Academy 01462 730391
Pix Brook Academy 01462 416243
Gothic Mede Lower School 01462 732002
BEST Nurser y (Arlesey) 01462 732168
Arlesey Preschool @ WI Hall 07815 293670
Children’s Centre
Stotfold and District Children's Centre 01462 730623
Transpor t
Trains (National Enquiries) 08457 484950
Whitbread Wanderbus 0300 123 3023
Boxall Taxis 01462 433 333
Greenacre Transfers
Airpor ts & Chauffeur Ser vices 07555 70 78 48 www.greenacretransfers.co.uk
Business Directory
ACORN Arlesey Conser vation For Nature
AD Garden Rooms
A JB Fencing
Alfie’s Barbers
07970 734416
01438 313765
07837 791365
01462 658449
All Wrapped Up - Balloons and Florist 07886 569134
Andy Leonard Painter & Decorator 07889 903283
Arlesey Community Larder
Arlesey Walking Group
Arlesey Pharmacy
Arlesey Social Club
Aquarius Garden Design
Barn Hair Studio
Bal & Co Motor Care
Bews Electrical
Big Minibus Hire
BK Electrical / Brian Kelly
07427 650080
01462 638286
01462 731200
01462 731361
Ask Phil - Windows, Driveways, Garden Rooms 01462 545729
01462 731292
01462 835611
01462 731500
01462 834488
07817 766997
07817545314
Box Of Cakes Celebration Cakes to order 07812 055587
Broadband Communications
BSH Glazing ( Windows & Doors)
Bugs ‘n’ Things Pest Control
Builders - SJ Brock
Carpentr y by Ray
Carpet Cleaning - ACCS Ltd
Carpets & Flooring - Paul Faulkner
Cascade Water Ser vices
Catsitter - Claire
The Cooker Buddy Oven Cleaning
01462 732628
01462 730884
01462 735999
01462 231257
01462 732814
01462 629302
01462 731674
07887 531034
07984 344997
Computer Repairs - 0777 7113107
01462 810065
Chris Webster, Stotfold 01462 834108 (Correspondent for The Comet )
Darren Peters Proper ty Maintenance
Dennison’s - House & Garden Clearance
Do It All Dan
Electrician - Terr y C Seymour
Fair field Bowls Club
Fencing (A JB)
Finesse Interiors
First Step Estate Agents
Foot Health Professional - Vicki Eagles
FullFlow Pressure Washing/Cleaning
Gifford Dance Academy
Graham Smith Brickwork & Paving
Greenacre Transfers Airpor ts & Chauffeur Ser vices www.greenacretransfers.co.uk
Green Door Proper ty Management
Guides - Stotfold Guide Association
Henlow Vets
House of Fitness Pole fitness
Hypnotherapy - Pathway Hypnotherapy Rooms
James’s Carpentr y & Handyman Ser vice
Jar vis Footcare
Locksmith Ser vices
SHA Care Ser vices 0333 0062644
Sheldon Electricals 01767 448188
Shel's Shabby Chic, Vintage painted furniture & workshops 01462 234228
Solicitors - HR J Foreman Laws 01462 458711
Tally Bookkeeping
01462 733322
07522 354141
07908 674890
01462 236559
07811 738599
07837 791365
01462 896046
01462 659730
07812 399659
Foot Pro Podiatr y 07377 536685
07306 085207
07585 221513
01462 731829
07555 707848
01462 510765
01462 235273
01462 416416
07840 268099
07497157531
01462 234292
07816 329363
01462 290226
506144
Loved Gardens
07981 275663 It’s
- Repairs & Installations (J Garside) 07951 473505 Window Cleaning - ACCS Ltd 01462 629302
